Hunting, Fishing & Trapping Without a License

While you will not be facing jail time for hunting, fishing, or trapping without a license in Virginia, you may be penalized with a fine of $500. However, hunting without a license is a Class 3 misdemeanor, and if you plead guilty, it cannot be erased from your criminal record. If you have a license but it is not physically on you when you are hunting, fishing, or trapping, it is also a criminal offense punishable by fines of up to $250. If you have been found hunting without a license in the Southwest Virginia area, contact The Lawrence Law Firm, PLC immediately to find out what your options are.

Laws & Permits for Hunters in the State of Virginia

When it comes to hunting in Virginia, safety and legality are of the utmost importance. Lawmakers have passed specific laws pertaining to hunting in the state of Virginia, some of which are as follows:

Any hunter 12-15 years of age, or 16 years of age or older with his or her first hunting license, must complete a hunter education course in the state of Virginia

Hunters must tag any bear, deer, turkey, or other animal they kill

In addition to a basic hunter’s license, bear hunters must also acquire a bear license to legally hunt bear

During deer season, every hunter must wear blaze orange clothing that is visible from 360 degrees, whether it is a hat, jacket, or other piece of material on the upper half of his or her body. There are some exceptions to this rule, but for the most part, a hunter must be easily discernible for safety reasons

Target practice is only permitted in designated ranges

Possessing a loaded gun in a vehicle in hunting areas is illegal

Hunters cannot hunt on private property without the landowner’s direct permission, and if you are caught illegally hunting on private property, you may receive fines of up to $500 to $2,500, 12 months in jail, or both

Hunters cannot use any type of bait that contain deer urine or other bodily fluids to lure animals

Hunting dogs are permitted, but only during hunting seasons that specifically permit it. Dogs must be on a leash during off-seasons

Protect Your Right to Hunt With The Lawrence Law Firm, PLC

Poaching, hunting certain animals out of season, hunting while intoxicated, and other laws are also in place and can carry serious penalties when breached. Generally, these violations are categorized as a misdemeanor, and can result in the loss of your hunting license, fines, and even jail time. If you have been charged with a hunting violation in Southwest Virginia, The Lawrence Law Firm, PLC, in Roanoke, VA is the legal office to call. We fight for our clients both in and out of court, so you can rest assured that your right to hunt is best protected by reliable attorneys in the area.